Metropol Stabbing Suspect Remanded for One Day; Police Say He Tracked Victim Before Attack

The suspect, identified as M.B.K., appeared before the Nicosia District Court on charges of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm and carrying a knife unlawfully in connection with the attack on Z.A. at Metropol Supermarket on August 3.

According to police, M.B.K. repeatedly stabbed Z.A. with a pointed knife, inflicting multiple wounds to her body with the intent to kill. The victim, who had previously lived with the suspect in Turkey and is currently working in the TRNC, sustained life-threatening injuries.

Police told the court that after the attack, the suspect attempted to flee before turning the same knife on himself, causing self-inflicted injuries and losing consciousness.

Z.A. remains in critical condition after suffering multiple stab wounds to the head, neck, chest and abdomen, which caused severe damage to several internal organs. Police said they have not yet been able to take her statement because of her medical condition, adding that the charges could be upgraded to murder if she dies from her injuries.

Investigators also revealed that M.B.K. entered the TRNC on July 30 and carried out the attack four days later.

Police: Suspect Followed Victim

Police informed the court that the suspect and the victim had previously been in a brief relationship and that the attack was not a chance encounter.

According to investigators, M.B.K. knew the victim would be at Metropol Supermarket and followed her there before launching the assault.

Security camera footage from the scene has been obtained, while the knife allegedly used in the attack has been seized as evidence.

Police also said the suspect, who was initially hospitalised after injuring himself, was discharged following treatment and brought before the court.

Citing the need to collect additional statements and examine further evidence, police requested that the suspect remain in custody.

The court granted the request, ordering M.B.K. to be remanded in police custody for one day while the investigation continues.